Citadel of St Martin de Ré

St Martin de Ré, is the capital of the island. It's also one of the finest examples of military architecture from the 17th century to be found anywhere. The port and citadel were both fortified in 1681 by Vauban.

The ideal way to discover the town is by bicycle, although a tour of the ramparts on foot affords the most wonderful views, from the port to the Penitencier.

St Martin, also reknowned for the little boutiques and craft shops which surround the beautiful old port, is always buzzing and lively.